Fiber optic cables are cables that contain several thousands of optical fibers in a protective, insulated jacket. The optical fibers are very thin strands of pure glass, which transmit information in the form of light. Fiber optic cables have revolutionised the world of network communication ever since their inception nearly four decades ago. Today, these cables have almost obliterated traditional methods of networking, which use metallic wires. Some of the most popular uses of fiber optic cables are listed below.
Internet
Fiber optic cables transmit large amounts of data at very high speeds. This technology is therefore widely used in internet cables. As compared to traditional copper wires, fiber optic cables are less bulky, lighter, more flexible, and carry more data.
Computer Networking
Networking between computers in a single building or across nearby structures is made easier and faster with the use of fiber optic cables. Users can see a marked decrease in the time it takes to transfer files and information across networks.
Surgery and Dentistry
Fiber optic cables are widely used in the fields of medicine and research. Optical communication is an important part of non-intrusive surgical methods, popularly known as endoscopy. In such applications, a minute, bright light is used to light up the surgery area within the body, making it possible to reduce the number and size of incisions made. Fiber optics are also used in microscopy and biomedical research.
Automotive Industry
Fiber optic cables play an important role in the lighting and safety features of present day automobiles. They are widely used in lighting, both in the interior and exterior of vehicles. Because of its ability to conserve space and provide superior lighting, fiber optics is used in more vehicles every day. Also, fiber optic cables can transmit signals between different parts of the vehicle at lightning speed. This makes them invaluable in the use of safety applications such as traction control and airbags.
Telephone
Calling telephones within or outside the country has never been so easy. With the use of fiber optic communication, you can connect faster and have clear conversations without any lag on either side.
Lighting and Decorations
The use of fiber optics in the area of decorative illumination has also grown over the years. Fiber optic cables provide an easy, economical and attractive solution to lighting projects. As a result, they are widely used in lighting decorations and illuminating Christmas trees.
Mechanical Inspections
Fiber optic cables are widely used in the inspection of hard-to-reach places. Some such applications are on-site inspections for engineers and also inspection of pipes for plumbers.
Cable Television
The use of fiber optic cables in the transmission of cable signals has grown explosively over the years. These cables are ideal for transmitting signals for high definition televisions, because they have greater bandwidth and speed. Also, fiber optic cables are cheaper as compared to the same quantity of copper wire.
Military and Space Applications
With the high level of data security required in military and aerospace applications, fiber optic cables offer the ideal solution for data transmission in these areas. Fiber optic cables have any array of uses that go beyond what most people are aware of. You could have been using them all along and not have even known!